1 CONCEPT Have an idea.
2 COMMUNITY Build an online community based on 1.
3 DISTRIBUTION Get distribution deals based on 2.
4 FUNDING Get investment based on 2 & 3.
5 DEVELOPMENT OK! Now you can go actually make the game, based on 1 through 4!

1 - Have an idea.2 - Start making the game.3 - Put it on hold.4 - Advertise unfinished game.5 - Start building a community.6 - Paypal.7 - Forget about the game.8 - More paypal.9 - Blame the community for lack of support/money and blame them for slow development.10 - Realize the need for actual modelers, coders, mapmakers, artists, sound engineers, etc.11 - Shut down game development.12 - Spread blame, hate, abuse and vitriol on the community and the game industry at large. (go for "consolitis" and "casual", those always work)13 - Label yourself a "genius" or "ahead of your time"14 - Become a moderator in a gaming community.*Bonus*15 - Add "Game designer" to all your resumes, in bold.